An online petition has been created to boost support and David has gone to the lengths of installing his own hidden camera to protect Jacob’s plot.

A spokesman for Hartlepool Borough Council said: “Theft from a grave is a despicable act and we can fully understand the family’s frustration.

“We do have CCTV within the cemetery but it is a very large site. Council staff working at the cemetery are asked to be vigilant at all times and we would also appeal to visitors to report any theft or suspicious behaviour to us.”

The petition can be found at http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/cameras-put-up-around-stranton-cemetery.html